A group of ex-developers from Piranha Bytes has established a new venture, Pithead Studio

Björn and Jennifer Pankratz, previously associated with Piranha Bytes, have initiated Pithead Studio.

Having held roles as a story and game designer and creative director at their former company, the Pankratz duo aims to "develop immersive and fantastic indie games" at their newly established studio, Pithead, which launched on July 4, 2024.

Neither Björn nor Jennifer have addressed the situation at Embracer-owned Piranha Bytes, which reportedly ceased operations at the end of June.

Their YouTube channel has been updated to align with their new venture, featuring a five-minute video that outlines the studio's future plans. The name "Pithead" is inspired by the nearby mining shafts around their residence.

In 2019, THQ Nordic acquired Piranha Bytes, a German game development company. Up to now, both Embracer and Piranha Bytes have refrained from giving an official statement regarding the speculated shutdown.